During the past several weeks, fellow travelers have contacted this office to see if we have the schedule for Sunday services at Westminster Abbey. I assume most of them will be in London over the Christmas holidays.  I returned to the States in late September.  During my London stay, I attended services at the Abbey particularly to listen to the choir boys and enjoy the magnificent English in the Canon’s sermons.  The English language at its best.  I brought home with me one of the Sheets handed out at the service.  The following information/schedule is given in the Sheet:  8:00 am -Holy Communion;  10:00 am – Matins;  11:15 am Sung Eucharist;  3:00 pm –  Evensong;  5:45 pm- Organ Recital;  6:30 pm – Evening Service.

Details of all Abbey Services are available at the Abbey website:  www.westminster-abbey.org

Let us hear from you all about your experiences at the Abbey.  Such an inspiring setting.  AND THE MUSIC!  Luscious

Our flat on DRAYCOTT AVENUE is perfect!  The owners have restored and redecorated this marvelous property to a very high standard during the past year.  When I first walked into the flat to meet the owner, I was very pleased with the property.  It is obvious that these owners care a great deal about their property, and we are pleased to be on their team.  We have been presenting the property to our clients for nearly a year, and it has been very well received.    When a client leaves a property, out computer sends out an evaluation form to obtain client feedback.  The reports to this flat have been glowing.

As I have said before, I am no gourmet. I know what I like, and I have a tendency to go back and back again to restaurants where I have had good experiences. From time to time, I am experimental as I am wandering through the London lanes on my way somewhere. Besides good food, I like atmosphere where people are mingling, chatting as they eat, and discussing the news events of the day. I like to talk to people sitting at the next table who are also enjoying their meals. My wife says I can talk to the wrong telephone number for half an hour. I just like to be friendly. Besides, when in a London restaurant, I learn so much about London, the UK, or wherever other “eaters” come from. We usually end up exchanging email addresses and discussing recent plays we both have seen. I always have my camera with me, and I ask to take their photo. This is the kind of evening I had MASALA ZONE in Covent Garden. I had just been to a play and was feeling hungry before retiring for the evening.

I was walking near the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and was passing MASALA ZONE at 48 Floral Street–almost right next to the Opera House. I was first struck by the excited people who were finished with their meals–always a good sign–and were leaving the restaurant. I then looked in the large windows and saw a most amazing ceiling of puppets–truly, hundreds of them. One lady from New Zealand was leaving the restaurant and tucked the menu in her pocket. By then, I was eager, really hungry, and fully committed to try a new restaurant. I checked my pocket–yep! I had my debit card on me. That helps.

The people who own this restaurant—there are actually 5 or 6 of MASALA ZONE restaurants around London–are the same people who own CHUTNEY MARY, an Indian Restaurant on the King’s Road we have all known for years, but way out of central London and my walking path. The menu is Indian with lots of fresh food and a great blend of spices. I ordered lamb curry and a few side dishes the waitress suggested. It was served rather quickly and was well presented. I had a smile on my face, and the lady sitting next to me at the next table smiled back when she saw my pleasure; after all, she made the recommendation and was a “regular” here. I finished my meal, enjoyed my neighborly chat, took my photos of the restaurant, and departed with a good meal under my belt. By the way, I enjoyed my meal all night after I got home, and apparently, it liked me as well. That’s helpful.

You can read about MASALA ZONE on line at coventgarden@masalazone.com Their phone number is 020737901

I make my recommendation as an amateur food critic who simply knows what he likes. However, I really suggest you give it a try. It is located right where you will be spending your evenings. Ask anyone where the Royal Opera House is located in Covent Garden, and it is literally just around the corner.

Gentle readers, let’s hear your experiences here and at other restaurants.

I enjoy watching this ceremony.  I like the band, the foot guards marching in step, and the amazing visual experience in front of the Palace.  If visitors are in London with their younger children, the memory of this experience will be lasting.  The Guard Change takes place first at St.James’s Palace, the official residence of the Sovereign.  The marching then goes to the front gates of Buckingham Palace.  The Guards are at the Palace at 11:30 am, but i recommend that you be in position at least 15 minutes in advance.  I used to take guests to this event and started our visit at St. James’s Palace and then on to Clarence House –residence of Prince Charles–and then followed on to the Palace–all the while watching the guard change at each location.  Or, on other occasions, I positioned myself under the Victoria Monument with the entire scene before me.   The Change takes about 45 minutes.

I recommend that you go to the Wellington Barracks near Buckingham Palace to see the Guards Parade which takes place at least an hour before the Change at Buckingham Palace.  The Guards Museum is wonderful.  The entire history of the Guards is on display including the uniform of the Duke of Wellington worn at the Battle of Waterloo.  Children can dress up in Guards uniforms and have their picture taken.  Fun.  A 5 pound souvenir.  This is one of those wonderful museums little known to visitors.

Thomas Moore

http://www.londonconnection.com

THE COURTAULD INSTITUTE OF ART is located in the Strand Block of Somerset House on the Strand.  This part of Somerset House was the first home of the Royal Academy in 1768.  Somerset House is one of the 18th century great houses still in existence and houses several collections of superb quality.  But the Courtauld is the STAR.  The Courtauld Institute of Art is a self governing college of the University of London. The emphasis  THE HISTORY OF ART.  This Institute is the premier center for the teaching of the history of art.  It was established in 1932 by Samuel Courtauld who gave his incomparable collection of Impressionist paintings, Lord Lee Fareham, and Sir Robert Witt.

A visit to THE ROYAL MEWS is an absolute MUST DO while in London.  The center of the collection is the GOLD STATE COACH which carried  the Queen to her coronation.  It was overhauled in preparation for its first appearance in 25 years during the Golden Jubilee Celebrations in 2003.  The 24ft-long coach, built for George III in 1782, was used during the Queen’s procession to St. Paul’s Cathedral for the Golden Jubilee.  When George III ordered the coach, he sold all his father and grandfather’s state coaches to meet the 7,562 pound cost of the new coach.  In 1782, the London Chronicle reported, “for elegance and grandeur will excel anything of the kind yet done in Europe.”

But while its “fairytale” design has always delighted the crowds, royal occupants have found it less than comfortable.  William IV likened traveling in it to being being abroad a ship in rough seas, while Queen Victoria refused to use it for most of her reign because of its “distressing oscillations.”  These were reduced a bit when George VI ordered an overhaul.  The current Queen took a test-drive in it before her 1953 coronation to acquaint herself with its unique motion.

George IV, well known for his extravagance, spent 3,000 pounds having the roof raised so he could sit upright while wearing his new crown.  Queen Victoria added a State Hammercloth canopy, at a cost of 993 pounds to protect her coachman in bad weather.  Her son King Edward VII had the hammercloth removed so he and Queen Alexandra could be more easily seen by the crowds.  King George V raised the seats so he and Queen Mary were in clear view to the public.  The queen loved her jewels, and the King was a man with a great sense of duty.

Go see the coach.  The Royal Mews is not open during the winter when the horses are in the Royal pastures assuring their health for the great demands of State occasions.  This coach is part of the great experiences in London.  Please, don’t send me an email telling me you tried to hire a ride.  If anyone has, please let us know.  The children will love the visit to the Royal Mews.  A visit to THE ROYAL MEWS is an absolute MUST DO while in London.  The center of the collection is the GOLD STATE COACH which carried  the Queen to her coronation.  It was overhauled in preparation for its first appearance in 25 years during the Golden Jubilee Celebrations in 2003.  The 24ft-long coach, built for George III in 1782, was used during the Queen’s procession to St. Paul’s Cathedral for the Golden Jubilee.  When George III ordered the coach, he sold all his father and grandfather’s state coaches to meet the 7,562 pound cost of the new coach.  In 1782, the London Chronicle reported, “for elegance and grandeur will excel anything of the kind yet done in Europe.”

But while its “fairytale” design has always delighted the crowds, royal occupants have found it less than comfortable.  William IV likened traveling in it to being being abroad a ship in rough seas, while Queen Victoria refused to use it for most of her reign because of its “distressing oscillations.”  These were reduced a bit when George VI ordered an overhaul.  The current Queen took a test-drive in it before her 1953 coronation to acquaint herself with its unique motion.

George IV, well known for his extravagance, spent 3,000 pounds having the roof raised so he could sit upright while wearing his new crown.  Queen Victoria added a State Hammercloth canopy, at a cost of 993 pounds to protect her coachman in bad weather.  Her son King Edward VII had the hammercloth removed so he and Queen Alexandra could be more easily seen by the crowds.  King George V raised the seats so he and Queen Mary were in clear view to the public.  The queen loved her jewels, and the King was a man with a great sense of duty.

Go see the coach.  The Royal Mews is not open during the winter when the horses are in the Royal pastures assuring their health for the great demands of State occasions.  This coach is part of the great experiences in London.  Please, don’t send me an email telling me you tried to hire a ride.  If anyone has, please let us know.  The children will love the visit to the Royal Mews.

Many people who go to London think Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge define this incredibly beautiful city. Let me give you some facts about BIG BEN which are very interesting to me. My source for my details is the MICHELIN GUIDE.

The 316 ft tower, erected close to the site of the old palace clock tower which had existed from 1288-1707 and at one time had the staple or wool market at its foot, was completed by 1858-9 with clock and bell. The name BIG BEN, probably after Sir Benjamin Hall, First Commissioner of Works and a man of vast girth applied originally only to the bell which after recasting at the Whitechapel Foundry weighs 13 tons 10 cwts 3 qtrs 15 pounds, measures 9 feet in diameter and 7 feet in height and early on developed a 4 ft crack. The clock mechanism (electrically wound) weighs about 5 tons. The dials of cast iron tracery are glazed with pot opal glass and are 23 feet in diameter; the minute spaces 1 ft square, the figures 2 ft long. The minute hands of copper are 14 ft long, weigh 2 cws, and each travel over 100 miles a year. The mechanism proved reliable, except for minor stoppages, for 117 years until it succumbed to metal fatigue in 1976 and major repairs were required. Big Ben was first broadcast on New Year’s Eve 1923. The light above the clock remains lit while the Commons is sitting.

For photographers, take the normal photos from the Westminster Hall side–the more photographed side. But, then take some really dramatic shots from the South Bank, over Westminster Bridge. I walk over Westminster Bridge and walk along the south bank of the Thames until I pass by St. Thomas’s Hospital gradually reaching Lambeth Palace and the Museum of Garden History. Look back, and you will see a magnificent view of the Palace of Westminster. Then cross Lambeth Bridge and walk through VICTORIA TOWER GARDENS and on to the Royal Tower and the Houses of Parliament. Try some nights shots of Big Ben from LONDON EYE with all the colors rippling on the Thames. The river acts as a mirror. VERY BEAUTIFUL.

http://www.londonconnection.com

A few years ago, when Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother died, I was here in the States. When I heard the news, my heart missed a beat. I had great respect for this old veteran. I was like the rest of the British who loved her. I was often in London on the 4th of August and would wander by Clarence House where the crowds had gathered to wish her HAPPY BIRTHDAY. As the news of her death registered in my brain, my son asked if I was going to the funeral. Within minutes, I had a ticket and I left for London. I arrived in London and left immediately for the ceremony where the Queen Mother’s coffin was placed on a dais in Westminster Hall to allow the crowds to pass by to pay their respects. Some of the older generations who knew her during the war years stopped in front of the coffin, dropped their heads in respect, and moved on in deep thought. People of all backgrounds were gathered there to honor this remarkable woman. I was born during the war years–World War II, that is–and as a young fellow in my teens I knew a great deal about the Queen’s involvement in her people’s lives. She came into focus for me when her husband King George VI died in 1952 and was lain in State in WESTMINSTER HALL. The Queen was heavily veiled in black and was joined by an entire empire to mourn the loss of this brave man who never wanted to be king but had a sense of duty he would not refuse–a trait he passed on to his daughter the current Queen Elizabeth II. All these great state occasions centered in this ancient building, Westminster Hall.

When I arrived in London, I decided that I wanted to join the long lines of people who waited hours to pass by the coffin. I stood six hours. It was cold, but it was worth it. As we made our way along the South Bank and over Lambeth Bridge past the Burghers of Calais and through Victoria Tower Gardens coming closer and closer to Westminster Hall, everyone was reminiscing about the days when……. The Queen heard of the cold and the long lines and had large containers of hot tea sent from Buckingham Palace. When we were almost to the great Hall, an elderly lady in a wheel chair joined the queue in front of me. She remembered the Queen Mother coming to the East End to warm the hearts of those poor people whose homes had been blown up and burned during the Blitz. This great emotion galvanized the group as we entered down the steps into the Hall. I remember the impression I had on this amazing occasion. There was the coffin lying in state, draped with the Queen’s great flag shimmering with gold, blue, red, and blue against those ancient walls. The immense window behind the coffin on the other side of the hall made the setting appear like an amazing film set–something Hollywood could never create–this was the real thing. I have to say I was really overwhelmed with the setting AND THIS MOMENT. The huge hammerbeam ceiling was almost surreal: immense, high, rich, ancient, and solemn. This funeral in this setting was a continuation of ancient traditions that causes a passing person to realize the magnitude and power of a nation’s traditions and glory. This glorious Queen was joining the ancients of ancients on this ever-moving continuum of national identity.

As the lines passed through the Hall very solemnly, I had time to read the plaques which had been placed all over the stone floors indicating other famous British Kings and Queens and one Prime Minister who had lain in State in this great hall: Winston Churchill, King Edward VII, King George V, Queen Mary and Queen Alexandra, George VI and now his consort Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. I remember from my schooling that King Charles I had stood trial for treason and faced Cromwell in this hall in the 1600′s. Guy Fawkes tried to blow up Parliament and was condemned in this hall. Sir Thomas More was condemned here in 1535 and was beheaded on Tower Hill. This building, built by William Rufus son of William the Conqueror in 1097 is more than a thousand years old. What a long history of events. Look, it is all around you.

A bit of humor. Several years ago now, the great hammerbeams were being cleaned. Balls were found 90 feet above the floor level, caught in the hammerbeams for centuries, confirming that Henry VIII and his court played tennis here. They also celebrated coronations and other great festivities here for over one thousand years. Next you walk past the Houses of Parliament, don’t forget to admire the great buttresses which hold up the great hammerbeam roof. This is one of the most ancient royal edifices not to be missed if you can arrange to visit. See if you can arrange to have Cromwell’s statue removed from the front of the great Hall. He needs to be put round back, I think.

I have great memories of this hall. Those visitors who have been, let us hear from you. How were you successful obtaining entrance? Our readers would like your assistance. Maybe it is part of the summer tours. We need to find
out. Readers, please help us with this one.

Tom

http://www.londonconnection.com

What is tucked away in small London museums is amazing. On your first visits to London, you will visit the V&A, the National Gallery, and perhaps the National Portrait Gallery. But, on your second visit, please make your way to the WALLACE COLLECT on Manchester Square. IT IS MY FAVORITE FINE ARTS MUSEUM–Amazing collection! Take the tube to Oxford Circus and walk up Regent Street for a couple of blocks and turn left; you will reach Manchester Square. On the north side of the Square sits HERTFORD HOUSE. The house was built in the 1776 for the 4th Duke of Manchester. It was later remodeled to house Richard Wallace’s collection. The gatherine of one of the world’s finest collections of 18th century French art was the lifework of the 4th Marquess of Hertford (1800-1870) who lived most of his life in Paris at his chateau BAGATELLE in the Bois de Bologne. He transformed the family art collection started by his great grandfather in the 18th century, increased by the 2nd Marquess (Romney and Reynolds) and enlarged further by the 3rd Marquess who purchased 17th century Dutch paintings, 18th century French porcelain and Sevre porcelain. The 4th Marquess brought the collection from Paris to London. It was his widow who left it to the nation in 1900.

The important PAINTINGS in the collection are Boucher’s MADAME DE POMPADOUR, Canaletto’s VENICE, Clouet’s MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS, Fragonard’s THE SWING, Gainsborough’s MRS. ROBINSON, Guardi’s VENICE, Hals’ LAUGHING CAVALIER, Hoppner’s GEORGE IV AS PRINCE OF WALES, Lawrence’s GEORGE IV, Rembrandt’s TITUS, Rembrandt’s SELF PORTRAIT, Reynolds’ TWO CHILDRENS PORTRAIT, Ruben’s ISABELLA BRANDT, Titian’s PERSEUS AND ANDROMEDA, and Watteau’s THE PASTORALS. How’s that for a list to see? Fabulous.

The FURNITURE is unique: Boulle – Wardrobe, cabinet, pedestal clock, and other fine pieces. Cressent – Chest of drawers, writing desk, and gilt clock case. Riesener 3 drop front secretaries all made for Marie-Antoinette, two chests of drawers, Comte d’Orsay’s roll top desk with marquetry work, and a pair of gilt corner cupboards made for Marie-Antoinette and the famous mahogany cylinder top desk.

THE GOLD BOXES are exquisite. In galleries 12 and 26 there are principally French 18th century gold boxes–a total of 89 boxes, can you believe. They are in multicolored gold, hardstone, mounted with Sevres porcelain,jeweled, painted, incorporating tortoiseshell, oriental lacquer, miniatures, square, oblong, oval, round, with oblique corners, shell-shaped. You stand in front of these amazing items, and you can hardly believe how beautiful they are and wonder what kind of world appreciated such magnificent miniature items. A very special moment.

THE SEVRES PORCELAIN COLLECTION is unmatched. Exquisite pieces of porcelain mainly from the Bourbon reigns of Louis XV and Louis XVI are absolutely out of this world. Madame de Pompadour joined Louis XV to develop the Royal Sevres Porcelain Works. The quality of these decorative items was unparalleled by any other 18th century factory. These pieces were highly sought after and filled the royal palaces in both England and in France. After the French Revolution, the French Royal Family’s superb collection was sold. The greatest collectors for these objects were King George IV and the 4th Marquess of Hertford. Since both individuals were English, many of the Frech royal pieces of porcelain ended up in Buckingham Palace, Windsor, and in the Wallace Collection.

Scholars approach history very differently. Some study historical documents and texts while others study the literature of a particular era. Some historians approach the study of a particular period by the decorative arts–items people liked to surround themselves with. For me, the WALLACE COLLECTION is history in a most magnificent visual experience. I often stand in front of a particular item and just wonder about the age it was made, who made it, where it was intended to go, what does it tell us about the person who purchased it, and where was it intended to go. History becomes very real this way. And the eyes begin to learn to detect items of great beauty and quality. Out go the plastic flowers and swag lamps!

I find that young people grow to love these objects, perhaps bit by bit. Great collectors started somewhere. I used to take my older daughters to see the items in the Wallace Collection. I later took my two sons. I am beginning to see these experiences having effect on them as they start to gather for their own homes. Education and refinement are gradual processes. Don’t give up; start them with an hour–if that is all you dare try–in the Wallace Collection. They will see reproductions of the paintings all the rest of their lives. The gold boxes will make them curious. I don’t know what they will think about all the exquisite pink, lavender, yellow, and gros bleu of the Sevres, but give it a try. You will be doing your parental job. It will pay great dividends. It will affect the quality of a youngster’s life. I believe this.

This museum is a haven for me, and I would like to share it with you. Let me know about your visits here. I am anxious to hear.

Thomas Moore

http://www.londonconnection.com

Our company’s Basil Street flat is the perfect flat in the perfect location on the perfect street. It is one of the most beautiful flats we have offered to our clients. Basil Street is one of those stunning Knightsbridge streets with beautiful Edwardian red brick buildings all finished and trimmed with gray Portland stone. I find myself whistling as I walk down this street; it is so pleasant. Basil Street connects Sloane Street to Door #2 at Harrods Department Store/Hans Crescent. I stayed in this flat for a week in September and then booked our friends into the property for the following week. I enjoyed my stay, and my friends say they want to go back again next year. It is simply the perfect flat in all regards. The Knightsbridge Tube Stop on the Piccadilly Line is five minutes from the accommodation. Restaurants and cafes are on almost every corner.

I enjoyed Cafe Rouge, opposite Door #2 at Harrods on Hans Crescent for breakfast; EGGS BENEDICT or FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST (with Bangor, two eggs, tomato, mushrooms, beans, and toast) were my choices. And I also enjoyed the PEPPER STEAK and French fries in the evening. You can’t stay in a flat all day long, even if it is this flat on Basil Street, but you can sit at Cafe Rouge and watch the most amazing world go by. I was fascinated with all the Bentleys, Rollers, Astin Martins that came and dropped off at Harrods. I couldn’t get over all the cyclists and bikers who petaled up, secured their bikes, put on their suit coats and took off their helmets. It was just like a fashion show, and I was amused. I would then return to the flat on Basil Street and get ready for my day. The building porter is often at the building front door with a warm morning greeting as you cross through a beautiful marble floor/beautifully paneled lobby to the lift. The accommodation is on the 4th floor. As I opened the flat door, a nice entrance hall greeted me. I turned right into a very attractive lounge, all done up in white with very comfortable sofas all stuffed with down, huge TV with so many channels, and a decorative fireplace. The master bedroom is large with a queen size bed and an en suite bathroom all finished in white marble. There is a very large tub with overhead shower as well as a hand held shower and lots of hot water. One wall is all mirror over two hand basins. The loo is tucked on the opposite wall. Really nice. The second bedroom is to the back of the apartment and has two twin beds and ample storage. The second bathroom has a shower stall, loo, and sink and is beautifully finished in marble.

The kitchen is fantastic with a large American-style fridge/freezer, hob, oven, microwave. A very comfortable glass kitchen table and four chairs are in one corner and two walls are lined with granite counters and wood cupboards. The large window over the sink overlook the roof tops of Knightsbridge–really fascinating.
I wanted to highlight this flat because it really is a special place. The owner is a successful builder in Knightsbridge whose permanent residence is outside the UK. We are fortunate to have the apartment during the times he is not in London. Lucky folks who get to stay here, I assure you. My favorite walk from this flat was going down Basil Street to Hans Crescent (Harrods), carrying on past Beauchamp Place and Pont Street to Walton Street to peek into the shops. I particularly like the pillow shop, the Meissen shop, and all the jewelry shops on both sides of the street. There is a wonderful lunch spot half way down and then the Sushi bar at the end of the road. If I am still on the go and have not had my breakfast, I turn back up on the Brompton Road and go along until I find VALERIE PATISSERIE where I have a full English Breakfast with fried eggs (the scrambled eggs are too wet!) and an almond croissant with a hot cup of chocolate. I then carry on down the Brompton Road until I reach Beauchamp Place where I turn down looking in all the shops and then back up Walton Street to Basil Street and on home. And then, I collapse into the down of that fantastic white sofa. What a way to start the day. This is a fantastic flat in a perfect location.
TRY IT; YOU WILL DEFINITELY LIKE IT.

To check availability of this property, please click on the link below.

Basil Street – London Connection

Thomas Moore

http://www.londonconnection.com

Readers must ask themselves who in the world is the author of this blog.  What does he know about anything.  What makes his information credible?  I don’t blame you for wondering who I am.  Let’s see if I can give you an idea.  My son Thomas Jr. and I own a short-let company for flats in Central London.  We have been offering flats to travelers to London for nearly thirty years.  Between the two of us, we have 45 years experience.  IT’S A LIFE SENTENCE, for sure.  We love our work, and we have thrown all our energies into the effort of doing a great job.  We have had spectacular team members and owners over the years who have all made contributions, but it has been our ultimate responsibility to see that everything works.

I am Thomas Moore Sr., and I am the host of this blog.  Let me give you some insight into my travel experience.  I live in the United States but have maintained a London home for the past twenty-five years.  I spend a good deal of time each year in the UK, often being in London four or five times a year.  My September trip was my 168th trip to the UK during my sixty-six years.  My wife Stephanie makes me laugh when she says I salivate when I see a suitcase because a trip to London means new experiences and more music, more theater, more paintings, more antiques, more flats, and more restaurants.  With an airplane ticket, a debit card, and my passport, I am away knowing that I am off to what I consider the most civilized spot on the planet:  London.

Over the years, I have taken many tours to Europe.  My own children and their friends were dragged onto planes, trains, and boats to enjoy the “European Experience.”  It must have had its effect because my five children love to be Londoners, wandering London streets.   We have wandered through galleries looking for paintings, furniture, rugs, jewelry, and miniatures.  I have wandered all over Britain in an effort to add to my 18th century porcelain and miniature collection.  I must say it has been an enchanting time gathering fine items for home to be given to my family.  I have been a literature scholar specializing in Renaissance literature, graduating from Brigham Young University in French and English Literature.  I completed a Master’s Degree with an emphasis on French Renaissance literature.  And then I went to the East to study Neo-Platonism in European poetry.  All along, I also had an emphasis in History.

In later years, I taught for over thirty years while developing several businesses and enjoying many community projects.  I was Vice-President of the Utah symphony, President of the Union Station Development Corporation which restored the historic Ogden train station.  I was instrumental in placing the Eccles Historic District on the the National Register for Historic Places.  My wife and I bought one of the great Prairie-style houses designed by Eber Piers, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, which later became the home of Marriner S. Eccles, eventually Under-Secretary of  the Treasury and First Chairman of the Reserve Board–possibly the most important financier of the 20th century.  Stephanie and I have filled the house with fine paintings, 18th century porcelain, fine Persian rugs, 18th century furniture, and fine silver.  It is much like an English country house–dogs on the beds and in the chairs.  But more, it has been the home of our five children, and now our 13 grandchildren.

Our life in London includes theater, church, historical residences, furniture, Persian rugs, ancient documents, silver, and Derby porcelain.  I love to collect, and I have friends in the art world, the book world, the stamp and coin world, and the world of music.  I love our life high in the Rocky Mountains, but I am always eager to get to London to plug in my charger.  I love to take my friends with us, and we have wonderful times riding the double decker buses, wandering through the galleries, and haunting book shops and antique markets.  I rush to Portobello Road to see my dealer friends whom I have known for years.  Sometimes, they have items they have been saving for me, and I am excited to be with them.  Our jeweler has been designing something which intrigues us, so we arrive at Heathrow, put down our luggage, and head off.

My wife says I talk about London from morning until night.  She is thrilled I am writing this blog because she hopes I spread my London enthusiasm around a bit.  After 43 years of marriage and non-stop London chatter, she is delighted to share my UK enthusiasm.  She tells me I should write a London travel book;  I tell her that I prefer to be in one.  So, here we are.

I am so happy you are all coming along with us on this blog experience.  I hope it is helpful, and I hope you will post and assist.  Your ideas and experiences are valuable to those who are participating.  i am rally eager to hear from you;  I am always searching.

Well, THAT’S IT.

Thanks,
Tom

http://www.londonconnection.com

London pubs are the gathering places for visitors and residents . For locals, they are  their clubs.  Businessmen go for a beer or for a pub lunch.

In the evenings, after office hours, London employees gather at their favorite pub for a drink before they head home.  In the evenings, Londoners and visitors gather in the pubs for a FEW drinks, for all the latest news–especially sports.  The atmosphere is always exciting and usually heightened by a few drinks.  People meet socially, and there is always the snugglers in the corners.

During the last few years, pubs have begun to offer a variety of drinks which are non-alcoholic, so the social purposes for the pubs are greater.

I personally don’t drink, but I like a pub lunch mid-day and some evenings after theater.  Concerns for public health lately have caused legislators to ban smoking from inside the pubs.  So, of course, the smokers are thick as bees outside where tables and chairs have been placed.  I was in London in September and went for a pub lunch–I was craving bangors and mash.  I asked the two gentlemen who were sharing a table with me why they prefer a pub over other social clubs.  Both agreed that the beer is always colder and has more taste. I admit that on a rare warm day in london, after a long day of reviewing flats for our company, a flowing glass of lager looks mighty good.   If I started drinking in the afternoon, my evenings would be lost.  But pub life is really fun with lots going on.  Everyone plays darts–individuals and teams.

Now, my recommendations?  Every Londoner has his favorite pub.  Pubs are on almost every corner.  My advice is to go walking until you find a pub where a lot of people have gathered.  Londoners know where to go for a drink, and it is very obvious–lots of folks hanging out.  Avoid the empty pubs.  Many of the pubs have the finest plantings of hanging baskets in London.  They are spectacular.  I learned about drip watering at the pubs in London.  I have been grateful ever since.  Enjoy your visit to a fun pub.  Readers, if you have found pubs you really enjoy, please post your recommendations for other readers.  Let’s hear from you.  Thanks.

http://www.londonconnection.com

Almost every client of the London Connection calls to discuss London theater tickets.  I have hesitated to post on this subject because it is such a broad subject.  Those who have gone to London have their own favorite sources for theater tickets.  But, let me tell you how I approach London theatre.  I am on the internet weekly watching for up-coming theater (musicals, plays, talk shows, etc.) which perhaps would interest me.  Since I am in London a good deal each year, I sometimes organize my visits around plays/musicals that I am eager to see.  A few years ago, Ralph Fiennes was on stage in London, and my close group of friends decided we wanted to go.  So, urgently, we went after tickets.  We worked hard to get the tickets we needed, and it worked out great.  We had a spectacular trip, and we saw performances which were really amazing. We have done this to see Maggie Smith, Jacobi, and a special performance of AIDA at the Opera House.   But most times, I have to be in London for a particular reason at a particular time.  So, if I am traveling during a heavy tourist season, I go to the theaters themselves long in advance for tickets because I don’t want to miss the performance and I am willing to pay full price to secure my seat.  If I am going on an off-tourist-season, and I am not fussy about what I see–just want a theater evening to something I know I will enjoy.  Then, I wait until I get to London and go to Leicester Square and purchase a cheap ticket.

I was in London recently and felt like going the theater one evening.  I went to the half price stall on Leicester Square to get my ticket.  I have gone there numerous times and have always been satisfied.  This recent visit, I found the staff there absolutely arrogant and not very receptive to my few questions and there was no line.  They seem to think they have an exclusive;  that simply is not so anymore.  I bought my ticket, but I decided I would check out the other small half-price ticket shops to see how they worked.  I was really satisfied.  I went to the theatre five nights during my three-month visit, and I bought four of those tickets from the small dealers.  In fact, two of the small dealers worked really hard calling around trying to get me a ticket I thought I wanted.  Don’t be satisfied with one ticket shop;  there are many of them on Leicester Square or very nearby that work very well.   A good friend of ours buys her tickets from the booth in her tube station near her.  She has been working with that outlet for years.  Check them all out;  it is part of the London experience.

My point in all this is  (1) IF YOU WANT A PARTICULAR PLAY ON A PARTICULAR DAY, CALL THE THEATER.  (2) If you are going to be in London during a high travel period, purchase your tickets long before your arrival in London either from the theater itself or from one of the dealers offering seats on the internet.  (3)  If you are in London during low season and you are not particularly fussy, wait until you get to London and go to the half-price ticket shops.  If you run into a dead end, call Harrods Theatre Ticket office.  You will pay, but you will get the best tickets.

Internet theatre information which I find helpful are   LONDON THEATRE DIRECT.COM,     LONDON THEATER GUIDE (www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk),     LONDON THEATRELAND (www.london-theatreland.co.uk),  or      LONDON THEATER TICKETS, NEWS, AND REVIEWS (www.theatermania.com/london)

World War II was a brutal and vastly devastating and destructive part of British history. There were few families who had not lost a son, a brother, a father, a neighbor; most had lost several family members. Bombs of all kinds fell from the air night after night. Children were sent to the countryside or shipped to North America for safety There was even word that the Royal Family would leave for Canada for safety; the King and Queen refused to leave, preferring to remain in war-torn London among their people. It was a black period of time, but as always there was always a silver lining. Neighbors drew close learning to share, everyone joined the war effort, and the national spirit could not have been higher.

King George VI and Queen Elizabeth went out from Buckingham Palace to visit displaced families and survey the horrific damage from the night’s bombing raids. Everywhere you looked there was rubble, bombed out buildings, great structures in flames, and the local people covered in dust and debris. The determination of the British people, and especially the Londoners was as Churchill said: ITS FINEST HOUR. When the Buckingham Palace was hit, the Queen said she was glad because she could now look the East End in the face. These are moments which bring greatness out in people.

Seventy odd years later, Londoners and visitors walk down London streets being reminded of these challenging days. There are memorials to the great war leaders like Montgomery and Churchill. There are plaques which remind us of one tragic event and then another which took place on this corner or down that street. The beautiful new monuments near the Houses of Parliament are amazing and are always surrounded by the British public and their visiting guests.

But, there is a memorial little known in history books or in the guide pamphlets. I ran into it on my last visit, purely by chance. I attend church services at our Hyde Park Chapel on Exhibition Road, just behind the Victoria and Albert Museum. After services, I walked down to the V&A on my way to Patisserie Valerie for brunch. I usually cut through the west entrance of the V&A, through the Georgian-Stuart-Tudor exhibitions, and out the great front door onto the Cromwell Road. But, on this occasion, the west door was closed because the museum was using the west door to deliver items for a special exhibition. So, as I went along my way down Exhibition Road, I noticed huge pieces of Portland stone blown out all along the wall of the building. The caverns were obviously put there by some powerful force like a high powered grenade or shell. I stood there for a moment in disbelief. It was an amazing moment. I suddenly realized that this was war damage. The Luftwaffe’s devastating air raids had made the V&A a high-level target. Because the building is crowded into a group of buildings, the shells could only reach the large foundation stones of the building so the great west neo-Renaissance facade was not destroyed. I walked back to the beginning of this wall to find a plaque which stated that the damage of this wall had happened during an air raid during World War II and was left as a memorial to all those who had suffered in London during these raids. I stood there, just staring at this devastation– trying to realize what it must have been like with planes flying overhead, bombs dropping everywhere, and planes targeting some of the most sacred buildings in central London. I took a picture which I will post, and I said to myself: WHEN I AM IN LONDON NEXT WITH MY GRANDCHILDREN, I WILL BRING THEM HERE AND TELL THEM STORIES ABOUT EVENTS WHICH MUST NEVER HAPPEN AGAIN. The shells struck the building as low as two feet above the sidewalk which means anyone walking along that sidewalk would have lost his life. THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST MOVING DISCOVERIES I HAD EVER FOUND WHILE WANDERING THE STREETS OF LONDON. Remember when you are at the V&A, be sure to visit the west side of the building. Stand there and drop your head for a moment. It did me a lot of good. I am grateful for this discovery.

Thomas Moore

http://www.londonconnection.com

London Post Boxes have historical stories to tell.  The PILLAR BOXES are painted red and have separate slots which are clearly labeled–one slot for overseas and first-class mail, another for second-class mail.  BUT DON’T STOP THERE.  LOOK AT THE CYPHERS found on the outside of the older style PILLAR post boxes.  The cyphers will indicate the reigning monarch at the time the box was erected.  Most of the ones we see will have cyphers ER with II beneath indicating that this post pillar box was placed during the reign of the current sovereign Elizabeth II Regina (1952-).  Try to find George VI R (1936-1952), George V  R  (1910-1936), and the really rare ones:  E VI R for Edward VII (1901-1910) and Queen Victoria R (1837-1901).    The R means Rex (Latin for King) or Regina ((Latin for Queen).

WESTMINSTER ABBEY is one of the most significant sites for visitors to London.  There are so many reasons to spend hours and hours in this magnificent building.  The many chapels are magnificent, filled with architecture and sculpture.  The varying styles of the NAVE are very interesting and reveal changing styles.  POET’S CORNER will get a posting on this blog because the individuals buried here are worth a pilgrimage from adoring readers;  watch for it, it will be interesting.  The Edward the Confessor Sanctuary has deep roots into the history of England;   it is truly one of the most inspiring destinations in the Abbey.  This posting deals with The Henry VII Chapel and The Lady Chapel.

Visiting the Henry VII’s Chapel is one of those experiences which is so powerful you will never forget it.  The fan-vaulted roof and ceilings, the banners of the Knights Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath, the choir stalls carved with humorous and exotic and fantastic creatures, and the burial vaults of some of the most famous sovereigns   line the walls.  THE 1947 BATTLE OF BRITAIN records the badges of the 68 Fighter Squadrons which took part in this famous battle.  Such  a beautiful memorial widow.

One of the most interesting objects in the Henry VII Chapel is the actual tomb of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York.  This tomb is an amazing bronze memorial to Henry VII and his consort, but the artist who designed and completed the bronze decor and effigy was a Florentine named Torrigiani.  Let me tell you about this Florentine sculptor.  Torrigiani’s jealousy of Michelangelo’s talent in Renaissance Florence was well known.  His hatred became so consuming that during an argument, Torrigiani is supposed to have picked up a bench and hit Michelangelo in the face, breaking his nose and defacing him.  We all know the image of Michelangelo;  well, this is the history of that distorted face.  The Fathers of Florence held a trial.  Torrigiani was found guilty and banished from Florence.  Where did he go?  To the court of Henry VII in London where he was commissioned to create the tomb of the king.  Imagine, if Torrigiani had gained favor with the Florentine governing body, Michelangelo may have been the creative genius of the Renaissance but living in England.    Wouldn’t that have change a lot of history.  Twists of history.

I am posting a video I found about the Henry VII Chapel and THE LADY CHAPEL where such spectacular memorials to Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots.  Enjoy the video;  it is very helpful.  Hold tight, I will be searching for a list of England’s noble greats who are buried in the Abbey.  It’s like a real history book.  Wonderful to take younger visitors to Westminster Abbey to study architecture and art, but also fun to find these famous entombed individuals who are for many of us just bits of history.

Henry Vlls Lady Chapel

Collecting adds so much to a trip.  Some visitors collect spoons.  Some collect post cards.  Some collect beer coasters.  When I was little, I used to collect matches with company advertising printed on the cover (my mother used to soak them before she would let me have them!).  It is just fun and often fits into our budgets.  Let me make a suggestion for your enjoyment.  From 1862 to 1872 and even to 1900, VANITY FAIR published caricatures of politicians, society folks, fashion, the Royal Family, great athletes and published them in each of their magazines. These historical caricatures reveal so much about the Victorian Age and make fantastic framed groupings at home when we return.  You can find them in antique print/engraving shops, on Portobello Road, in book shops.  I have a collection of about one hundred and have had them framed to add interest to our mountain home.  I understand you can find them from time to time on EBAY, and there are a few advertisements on the Internet which offer the VANITY FAIR ENGRAVINGS by Spy which come from old magazines.  Try to get the identification page that was published with them if you can.  Some of the rare ones with Prime Ministers, etc., are very expensive, but those are the jewels of a collection.  Yes, I like them for their history, but I like them more for their amazing portrayal of style and taste of the 19th century.

I went to dinner at Rules– you can see them in Rules Restaurant as photographed and posted on this blog–and there they were, all over the walls. Help me out here, travelers.  I am trying to find the VANITY FAIR engraving of Edward Prince of Wales, to become Edward VII (1901-1909).  I want it bad.  I am on the hunt. My point in all this is to encourage you to enjoy your collecting.  Gathering while traveling is such fun.  The problem comes when you like to buy what you like and you like a lot of things.  Remember, you have to get them home.  My advice?  BUY IT.  Figure out the “getting home”  later. Happy hunting.

Thomas Moore

http://www.londonconnection.com

Travelers to London are eager to know about their TRAVEL PASS card.  We receive questions almost weekly about the OYSTER CARD.  On the Internet, the OYSTER CARD has a website which is very thorough.  But, I wanted to make it as simple as possible. When you arrive in London, put your luggage in the flat and walk to the local Tube Station and purchase your TRAVEL PASS which is called OYSTER CARD.  I have included a photo of my own cover which I carry with me at all times in London because it gives me continuous use of the Tube and the buses.  You can buy a week’s pass, even shorter periods, and you are covered for a week’s travel around the City.  You will be offered Zone 1,  Zone 2, etc..  I find that I am safe purchasing only Zone 1 which allows the TRAVEL PASS in all of central London.  If you know you are going outside central London, you may wish to purchase Zone #1 and Zone #2.  Talk to the sales person in the tube stations who will give you the details. I have never purchased an OYSTER CARD on the internet before a trip.  It gets too complicated.  Just go to the tube station, and it is a simple procedure.

Be sure you take the Oyster Card with you every time you leave the flat.  Have your Tube Map with you.   Put the PASS in the entrance machine and you are off on your ride.  BUT, remember you have to put it  your PASS in the machine after your ride as well.   Remember, COMING AND GOING.  When hundreds of people are coming off the tube, they become impatient when you standing at the exit machine searching in your pocket for your card.  So, have it in hand while on the tube.

I find riding the tube fun and exciting.  I sit on the train and just watch the people come and go.  People intrigue me.  I wonder if they are French, English, Indian, or Africans.  I wonder if they speak English or some other language.  The variation in clothes is fantastic.  London is an international city, and you see it all there.

Buy your OYSTER CARD.  It will cost you 25 pounds for a complete week–all trains and all buses.  THE BEST DEAL YOU EVER HAD.   Have a lot of fun.